Fr. Lawrence Honored

At the recent Knights of Columbus business meeting of St. Basil’s Council 13271, Fr. Lawrence was presented with the Mexican Martyrs Chaplains award in honor of his extraordinary support for the Knights.

In the early 20th century, the Mexican government began a widespread persecution of Catholics. In 1926, priests, missionaries and members of religious orders were expelled from the country. Ignoring the right to religious freedom, the government under President Plutarco Elías Calles took control of churches, seminaries, convents and schools, thereby beginning the campaign to do away with all the “fanatics” who professed their Catholic faith.

In the face of violence and persecution, more than a million Mexicans migrated to the United States seeking refuge; others spontaneously organized to defend themselves against government oppression, some peacefully and others taking up arms under the banner of “Cristo Rey” (“Christ the King”). This was the beginning of what became known as the Cristiada or Cristero War.

For three years (1926-1929), the Mexican people lived through violent persecution, in which priests and laypeople were ordered to renounce Christ in public. To refuse to do so meant facing not only punishment, but even torture and death.

Priests died because they chose to continue to serve their people despite the threat of death. The Knights of Columbus want to honor their sacrifice and have created an award in their name that is be given out to the chaplains in California who give of themselves not only to their parish and diocese but also to the Knights as a chaplain.

Grand Knight Robert Martinez presented Fr. Lawrence with the Mexican Martyrs award amid a standing ovation from the council.